Create a frame at the location where you want the form field using the Rectangle Frame tool.
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Create fillable forms
Last updated on
Jun 2, 2026
Learn how to use the Buttons and Forms panel to add interactive form fields in Adobe InDesign.
InDesign lets you create basic fillable forms that become functional when exported to an interactive PDF. For advanced features like validation or calculations, continue editing the PDF in Acrobat and test the form after export.
Add form fields to your document
Select Window > Interactive > Buttons and Forms.
Select the frame and select a form element type from the Type list in the Buttons and Forms panel.
Enter a name for the form field in the Name field.
Customize form field appearance
Select the form field frame.
Select Window > Interactive > Buttons and Forms.
In the Buttons and Forms panel, select an event from the Event list (such as On Release or On Tap).
Select Add new action for selected event icon in Actions to add an action like Submit Form, Clear Form, or Print Form.
For Submit Form actions, enter the URL in the format mailto:address@example.com in the URL field.
For Button, Radio Button, and Check Box, select the state you want to customize under Appearance: Normal, Rollover, or Click.
For Text Field, Combo Box, and List Box, set the typography options under Font and Font Size.
Add tooltip text in the Description field under PDF Options.
Set form field tab order
A logical tab order lets you navigate forms easily with the keyboard.
Select Window > Articles to open the Articles panel.
Drag form field frames into the Articles panel in the desired order.
Rearrange items by dragging them up or down to adjust the tab sequence.
Select the panel menu and select Use for Tagging Order in Tagged PDF.
Note
The Articles panel tab order only works if you turn on Create Tagged PDF in the Export to Interactive PDF dialog box while exporting your form to an interactive PDF.
Create print and digital materials with InDesign
Design impactful ads, magazine and book layouts, and more.
